New Delhi is set to welcome a new destination for dessert lovers as Carvel, the iconic international ice cream brand, opens its first store in India on October 4, 2025, at Outer Circle, L Block, Connaught Place. The launch marks Carvel’s entry into the Indian market in partnership with Unify Foodworks, bringing globally recognized ice cream treats as well as India-specific creations to local consumers. The store aims to combine Carvel’s 90-year legacy of soft-serve innovation with flavors and experiences designed for urban Indian customers, catering to both dine-in and takeaway preferences.
Carvel’s Legacy and India-Focused Menu
Founded in the United States over 90 years ago, Carvel is credited as the inventor of soft-serve ice cream and has become a global leader in frozen desserts. The brand is known for signature products such as Flying Saucers®, Shakes, Carvelanches, and Dashers®, which have delighted generations of dessert lovers worldwide.
For the Indian market, Carvel is introducing a mix of classic favorites and India-first innovations. Highlights include:
- Gulab Jamun Sundae – combining the beloved Indian sweet with creamy ice cream
- Biscoff Carvelanche – a fusion of European cookie flavors with Carvel’s signature cake
- Mango Swirl – inspired by India’s tropical fruit palate
- Cassata Dasher – a local twist on a frozen favorite
This menu strategy shows Carvel’s commitment to adapting global favorites to Indian tastes while maintaining the brand’s international identity.
Connaught Place Flagship Store: Design and Accessibility
The flagship store in Connaught Place has been designed as a modern, accessible space catering to both walk-in and takeaway customers. One notable feature is a grab-and-go freezer stocked with novelties like Flying Saucers®, providing convenience for urban shoppers. The store pricing starts at Rs 79, making it affordable for students, professionals, and families alike.
Operating daily from 12 PM to 12 AM, the store aims to serve both daytime visitors and late-night dessert seekers, positioning itself as a flexible and family-friendly destination.
Statements from Key Executives
Steven Yang, Senior Vice President, APAC at GoTo Foods, highlighted the market potential:
“India enjoys desserts like no other country, and that’s why Carvel belongs here. Entering one of the world’s most exciting food markets, we are bringing a heritage brand that has been delighting families for over 90 years to a new generation of consumers. India’s love for celebration, indulgence, and togetherness makes it the perfect home for Carvel.”
Sumer Sethi, Founder of Unify Foodworks, added:
“We are thrilled to bring Carvel to India, a country where desserts are part of every celebration and moment of joy. This launch is not just an expansion but a cultural exchange, blending Carvel’s playful legacy with India’s rich dessert traditions to create new ways of celebrating everyday moments.”
Carvel’s Market Strategy in India
Carvel’s entry reflects the rapidly expanding premium dessert segment in India, particularly in Tier-1 cities. By offering a mix of heritage favorites and India-specific creations, the brand is targeting young urban consumers who are looking for both novelty and nostalgia in their dessert experiences.
The Connaught Place store also introduces an experiential hook for early customers: the first 20 visitors on the launch day will receive special gifts, encouraging footfall and engagement.
From a broader industry perspective, Carvel’s entry signifies growing interest from international quick-service dessert brands in India, where consumers increasingly seek premium yet affordable indulgences. Carvel aims to generate over 1,000 direct jobs as it expands across India, signaling a long-term commitment to the market.
Creating a Unique Dessert Experience
The New Delhi flagship store combines modern design, convenience, and a diverse menu to attract urban consumers. In addition to dine-in options, the grab-and-go format and delivery partnerships ensure accessibility for busy professionals and families. Seasonal events, tasting sessions, and interactive experiences are planned to engage customers and create memorable moments around dessert consumption.
By blending global legacy with India-specific flavors, Carvel is positioning itself as a brand that respects local preferences while offering international quality. This approach is expected to resonate with consumers who are increasingly open to exploring new dessert formats and flavors.
A Sweet Beginning in India
The launch of Carvel in Connaught Place, New Delhi, marks a significant step for the global dessert brand in India. With its combination of internationally recognized products and India-first innovations, the store promises a premium yet accessible experience for dessert lovers of all ages.
As Carvel expands to other metropolitan cities in India, it aims to strengthen its presence in both retail and digital channels, providing convenience, quality, and variety. For New Delhi residents, the flagship store is more than a dessert destination—it’s an opportunity to experience nearly a century of global dessert expertise, now tailored for Indian tastes.
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